Global Network of National Geoparks

The beauty of Bréifne uncovered

Source :http://www.globalgeopark.org Source:www.nwipp-newspapers.com Published :October 25, 2007

 

In recognition of the cultural and environmental diversity of the area known as Bréifne, which covers Fermanagh, Leitrim, Cavan, Sligo and Roscommon, a series of information and promotional products have been developed.

The local authorities along with the Geological Survey of Ireland, the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, the University of Ulster and Cavan County Enterprise Board decided to create a series of products to allow people to enjoy 'A Different Journey' around Cavan, Leitrim, Fermanagh, Sligo and Roscommon.

Bréifne was founded in April 2004 to support and encourage tourism in the Northwest of Ireland. In view of the first phase of the programme and the quality of the work completed, a further substantial grant of almost ¤400,000 has been secured for the ongoing promotion of the area in Phase II. This money will also assist the process of extending the present UNESCO Geopark designation on Cuilcagh Mountain in Fermanagh across the mountain into Cavan.

During Phase I of Bréifne a number of ideas were developed, including a 200 page full-colour travel-guide with details on the region's history, landscapes, geology, flora and fauna, archaeology, famous people, hotels and accommodation, dining opportunities, special interests, placenames, detailed maps and distance charts as well as full profiles of Enniskillen, Cavan, Carrick-on-Shannon, Sligo, Boyle, Ballyconnell, Belturbet, Belleek, Blacklion and Belcoo, Manorhamilton and Dromahair. The guide includes some 350 full-colour photographs by Mike Bunn, one of Ireland's leading photographers.

The production of a 26 minute broadcast quality documentary on Bréifne describes the origins of the ancient kingdom of Bréifne and provides a visual journey through the area's unique landscapes, culture and heritage. The documentary was produced by Rob Vance who is known for his work on the RTE series "Secret Sites'. The film is included with the travel guide and also contains a full database of information on the region and a specially created music score.

The creation of a 1200 page website www.breifne.ie ensures extensive information on the region is offered to the visitor.

The site details everything the visitor needs to know and more. Learn about the formation of the landscape and the history of the region and her people. Take a virtual tour through a stunning glacial valley. Study the wildlife inhabiting the unique, unspoilt environment. Visualise the ancient history of Bréifne through archaeology or engross yourself in the region's folklore, heritage, culture, music and song.

Browse the Bréifne approved accommodation listing and choose from a variety of places to stay from a lakeside B&B to a plush hotel to a slow moving barge on the Shannon -Erne canal. Visit some of the museums, art galleries, theatres and visitor centres in Bréifne. Take a trip to a coal mine and see for yourself how local men worked one of the narrowest coal seams in the Western world. Discover one of Europe's finest show caves and explore a natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers.

The Bréifne area is a myriad of unspoilt panoramic views with attractions and heritage sites to suit all tastes. Plan your visit to this historic part of Ireland today.